Today marked the Inauguration of the 44th President of The United States of America, Barack Hussein Obama. It was an amazing event dotted with people from all walks of life and social classes. Some estimates put the total attendees somewhere between 1.5 and 3 million people, or .5% to 1% of our total population.
The opening events went smoothly, save the ramblings of pastor Rick Warren, and was highlighted by Aretha Franklin singing "My Country tis of Thee". During the Oath of Office, Chief Justice Roberts and Barack Obama were a bit out of sync but got through the mistakes somewhat smoothly. Then came the speech.
Everyone expected various versions and snippets of his speeches to date mixed with Kennedy and Lincolnesque lines. Others expected a "Yes we can" style diatribe about how he needs our help and that all we must rely on is hope. Well many, including myself, must have been pleasantly surprised by a somber, reflective, historic and meaningful speech.
President Obama laid out many policy distinctions from his predecessor and provided a vision of the future that any American could get behind. The major themes were; remembering America's greatest challenges, remembering our forefathers sacrifice & courage in the face of almost certain ruin, the retirement of old grievances, the strength of our collective will and the capacity of our great nation.
There will be cynics and political hacks who tear through the speech and pour over the minutia for weeks. However there was one theme that cannot be disputed. That we, as Americans, have prevailed in uncertain times and that we shall overcome this challenge as well.
Now that the niceties are over, what will see if his words can translate into action. Only time will tell...
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